Aadhaar Card - Unique Identity Number for Indian Residents
आधार कार्ड
Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identity number issued by UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) to all Indian residents based on biometric data. It is free, voluntary, and serves as proof of identity and residence for accessing government and private services.
Key facts
- Issued by UIDAI to all Indian residents (citizens and non-citizens) without age restriction
- 12-digit unique number with embedded biometric data (fingerprints and iris scan)
- Completely voluntary and free to obtain; no mandatory requirement for any resident
- Applications accepted at UIDAI enrollment centers or through online portal at uidai.gov.in
- Aadhaar serves as proof of identity, address, and is linked to PAN, bank accounts, and government schemes
Details
Aadhaar, launched in 2009, is India's largest biometric identity system managed by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. The 12-digit number is based on unique fingerprints and iris scans of all Indian residents and serves as proof of identity and address. Enrollment is free and available at authorized UIDAI enrollment centers across the country or through online portals. Applicants need to provide minimal information and undergo biometric collection (fingerprints and iris scan). Aadhaar has become the backbone of India Stack, enabling digital access to banking, tax services, government subsidies, and e-governance initiatives. It is linked to PAN, bank accounts, mobile numbers, and government welfare schemes like PM-KISAN and Ayushman Bharat. While initially voluntary, Aadhaar is now quasi-mandatory for accessing government services and subsidies, though its linking to various services has faced legal scrutiny. Updates to Aadhaar data (name, address, phone) can be done free within one year of issuance or for a fee at enrollment centers. E-Aadhaar (digital copy) can be downloaded from the UIDAI portal using demographic details. One critical point: linking Aadhaar incorrectly to phone numbers or bank accounts can lead to account suspension or service denial.